If you’re considering moving to Philadelphia from NYC, this post is a must-read for you. It’s a big decision accompanied by a lot of changes. In our opinion, you must be on top of your research game if you’re serious. After all, you should know the reasons for moving to Philadelphia.
In this post, we’ll just do that. We’ll give you the ultimate New Yorkers moving to Philadelphia. We’ll cover important aspects, such as the history, living situations, education, healthcare, and everything in between.
History and Culture of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, affectionately known as Philly, is the birthplace of the United States. It is a city with history and a unique cultural charm that distinguishes it from other East Coast cities.
Visiting Philadelphia is like stepping into a living history book. Pretty much every cobblestone and corner tells a story. Philly's heart beats in its historic sites, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.
In case you’re not aware, it’s where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were debated and adopted, setting the stage for America's future.
But Philly's not just about the past. It’s a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse neighborhoods, each with its own flavor.
South Philly, for example, buzzes with the tantalizing aromas of Italian food, while the streets of Chinatown burst with colors and exotic scents.
Don't even get us started on the cheesesteak rivalry – Pat's and Geno's face-off is the stuff of legends!
Then there is sports. At this point, Philly is synonymous to sports. It’s more of a religion than fandom here. Eagles, Flyers, Phillies, Sixers – the passion of Philly fans is unmatched, a fierce loyalty that's both intimidating and heartwarming.
But above all, it's the people that make Philly, Philly. They're outspoken, full of grit and heart, embodying the city's motto "Let brotherly love endure."
As you’re planning to move here, you’ll enjoy every bit of the cultural side of this city. It’s simply because you won’t be able to help it.
Housing and Cost of Living in Philadelphia
Thinking of swapping the Big Apple for the City of Brotherly Love? Let’s talk about why Philadelphia could be your next dream home.
Before you feel anything else, you’ll find your wallet thanking you. It all comes down to the biggest hurdle of moving. Finding a place to live and whether you can afford it or not.
Thankfully, Philly's housing market is a breath of fresh air compared to NYC's sky-high prices. Whether you’re renting or buying, you’ll find more space for less cash. Imagine actually having a spare room or a backyard without breaking the bank!
Still up for moving to Philly? Good.
After you start living in Philly, you'll get that sweet urban vibe, something you can only dream of in a city as packed as NYC. Philadelphia neighborhoods offer a cozy feel. From the historic charm of Old City to the artsy streets of Fishtown, each area has its unique personality, yet they're all unmistakably Philly.
So, it’s pretty apparent that Philly's cost of living is significantly lower than NYC's. It’s also true for daily necessities such as groceries, dining out, entertainment.
Plus, no New York State income tax! You get a big city lifestyle without the big city price tag. So, for those considering a move from NYC, Philadelphia offers an enticing blend of affordability, culture, and community.
If you ask us, you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity.
Employment Opportunities
Are you asking yourself, should I move to Philadelphia? Among many reasons, the employment situation might be a big trigger for you.
Let’s say you made the move from NYC to Philadelphia. You used your savings to get through moving. Now what? You still need to work, right? Well, we have good news.
The city of Philadelphia is more than just a cool place to live. It also happens to be a hotbed of employment opportunities. It’s especially prominent if you compare it to NYC's saturated job market.
To start with, healthcare and education are big here. Philly is home to some of the nation's top hospitals like the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Health System.
Education-wise, it's a hub with universities like UPenn and Drexel. Think of the opportunities in research, academia, and healthcare!
In recent years, tech is taking off too. Estimates show that Philly's tech sector is growing fast and it offers a more affordable alternative to NYC’s Silicon Alley. It's a playground for techies, with a surge in startups and innovation.
Then there are finance and pharmaceuticals which are also key players. Companies like Vanguard and GlaxoSmithKline have operations in the region. So, it’s safe to assume that you won’t face any shortage of opportunities in these fields.
To back it all up, we know that statistics show the city’s job growth has been consistently on the rise, with a 2.1% increase over the past year! That’s a promising sign for anyone looking to make a career move.
So, if you’re in NYC dreaming of new job horizons, Philadelphia might just have the perfect role for you.
Education and Schools
If you have kids, their education is always going to be a big consideration when relocating. Thankfully, Philadelphia's education landscape offers a diverse array of options, from its public schools to higher education institutions.
Let's start with K-12 education. Philly's public school system, the School District of Philadelphia, is one of the largest in the country.
While it's had its challenges, there are shining examples of excellence throughout. Charter schools and magnet programs, such as the prestigious Central High School and Masterman School, offer top-tier education.
Plus, the district has been making progress in improving outcomes and resources to show a commitment to educational growth.
When it comes to higher education, Philly is also a powerhouse. The city is known as the "Eds and Meds" capital for a reason.
Prestigious universities like the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, and Temple University call this city home. These institutions are not just academic hubs but also major employers and contributors to the city's vibrant career paradigm.
Comparatively, while NYC is known for its educational institutions, Philly offers a more accessible and intimate academic environment. The city's college scene is less crowded and more community-focused. Essentially, it provides a unique blend of quality education and personal attention.
To wrap up, Philadelphia’s education system presents a compelling option for families and students that truly seek quality education. It's a place where educational opportunities are vast, and the community is invested in the growth and success of its students!
Public Transportation and Commuting
Let's talk about getting around in the City of Brotherly Love. Philly's public transit system and road infrastructure are pretty different from the hustle and bustle of New York City.
We can start with Philadelphia’s public transportation. It’s primarily managed by SEPTA. In case you’re not aware, SEPTA stands for Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority.
The overall system includes buses, trolleys, a subway system, and regional rail lines. You can clearly imagine how easy it is to navigate the city and suburbs.
If we compare it to NYC's MTA, SEPTA is often praised for being more manageable and less crowded. It essentially means you can expect a more pleasant daily commute.
Another perk is Philly’s size. It’s a big city with a smaller footprint than New York. So, it’s obvious that commutes are generally shorter and less stressful.
Plus, Philadelphia is renowned for being one of the most walkable cities in the U.S!
If we look at the road situation, New Yorkers moving to Philadelphia will find it pretty easy to navigate. While it has its share of traffic during rush hours, it's nothing compared to the gridlocks of NYC!
Parking is also more accessible and affordable. And if you’re into biking, Philly's got you covered with bike-friendly roads and dedicated lanes.
Overall, Philly's transportation system offers the convenience and connectivity of a major city without the overwhelming scale of NYC.
Lifestyle and Entertainment
Philadelphia's entertainment scene is your ticket to a vibrant, yet more relaxed, urban experience. Why, you ask? Let’s find out.
Let’s start with art and culture. Of course, Philly is a champion in that regard. It boasts incredible museums like the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of the American Revolution, and the Academy of Natural Sciences.
But the arts aren’t just in museums. You can find plenty of them on the streets in the form of murals and public art. If anything, they give the city a unique aesthetic vibe.
Then there is food. If you're a foodie, you should rejoice! Philadelphia’s culinary scene is a hidden gem in our opinion. From iconic cheesesteaks to upscale dining, the city caters to every palate.
And the best part? Quality dining comes without Manhattan prices!
If you consider yourself nocturnal and enjoy a good nightlife, you’d be glad to know that Philly offers everything from cozy pubs in historic buildings to trendy clubs and live music venues.
And if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love Philly’s green spaces. Fairmount Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, is a haven for recreation and relaxation, a contrast to NYC's crowded Central Park.
Healthcare and Safety
The healthcare system in Philly is a compelling aspect to consider as you’re planning to relocate from NYC. In case you’re not aware, Philadelphia is known for its top-notch medical facilities and innovative healthcare services.
If you look it up, you’ll realize that you're in the vicinity of some of the country’s premier hospitals and medical centers. Institutions like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Jefferson Health, and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) are not just nationally, but globally recognized for their excellence in healthcare!
When compared to NYC's already impressive healthcare scene, Philadelphia offers a more concentrated cluster of high-quality medical services. This means access to world-class healthcare professionals and cutting-edge treatments without the overwhelming sprawl of New York’s system.
Apart from the big names, Philadelphia also boasts a strong network of community hospitals and clinics. The goal here is to ensure healthcare is accessible across the city and surrounding areas.
Going back to the career aspect, we mentioned the healthcare industry in that section of this post as well. If you see yourself working in the healthcare industry, Philadelphia presents vast opportunities. The healthcare sector is a major employer and continues to grow.
In essence, Philadelphia’s healthcare system combines the scale and sophistication of a major medical hub. It’s accessible to anyone and everything. It's a place where cutting-edge healthcare meets a deep commitment to patient and community well-being.
Community and Social Life
If you're mulling over a move from NYC to Philly, the community and social life in Philadelphia might just seal the deal for you. Philly is known for its strong sense of community and a social scene that's both vibrant and welcoming.
Unlike New York's sometimes impersonal vibe, Philadelphia feels more like a network of interconnected neighborhoods, each with its own personality and sense of camaraderie.
Think of places like Manayunk that creates a small-town vibe in the city. Then there is South Philly and its streets that foster a sense of belonging and connection.
If you’re a social person, you’re in luck. Socializing in Philly is easy and varied. Whether it’s joining a local sports league, participating in a community art project, or engaging in lively discussions at a local coffee shop, there's a sense of inclusivity and accessibility everywhere!
What we’re trying to establish here is that it's easier to make connections and feel part of the community here compared to the often isolating hustle of New York City.
Last but not least, the city of Philadelphia also hosts a variety of festivals and community events throughout the year. The people practically celebrate everything from the city's rich history to its diverse cultural tapestry.
These events not only add to the city's charm but also provide great opportunities to meet people and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. You now know what to know before moving to Philadelphia. If all of the reasons align with your needs, it’s time to pull the trigger. And when you do, don’t forget to hire good movers who can handle your belongings with care without breaking your bank.
